CM consents to Mayor's loony idea

Free parking: CM consents to BCC move
New Indian Express

BANGALORE: Chief Minister Dharam Singh has approved the abolition of the pay-and-park system in the city.

The Ministry of Urban Development, on Wednesday, had sent a showcause notice to Bangalore City Corporation (BCC) demanding how it proposes to compensate revenue losses arising out of the BCC’s decision to abolish the pay-and-park system and why the Government should not intervene.

On Thursday, Mayor R. Narayanaswamy met the Chief Minister and submitted an explanation on the alternatives to compensate for the losses.

‘‘The abolition of the pay-and-park system will cause a revenue loss of Rs. 4-5 crore which will be compensated by reducing the service tax rebate to the private educational institutions in the city. This will generate revenues of Rs. 10 crore,’’ said Narayanaswamy. The Mayor also proposes to levy cess on vehicles registered in the city and expects to net in a revenue of Rs. 15 crore. BCC has already taken a decision to enhance advertisement tax.

‘‘These measures, to be approved by the forthcoming council meeting scheduled on February 15, would generate more than Rs. 25 crore revenue,’’ Narayanaswamy said. Primary Education Minister Ramalinga Reddy was present during the Mayor’s meeting with Chief Minister.